risperidoon

Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic medication used primarily to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and irritability associated with autism. It belongs to the class of antipsychotic medications known as dopamine antagonists.

The mechanism of action of risperidone involves blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, which helps to reduce symptoms of psychosis such as hallucinations and delusions. It also has a lesser effect on serotonin receptors, which contributes to its antidepressant properties.

The medication is available in various formulations, including oral tablets and liquid, an injectable form, and an orally disintegrating tablet. It can be administered to patients of all ages, including pediatric patients, and is often used as a monotherapy or in combination with other medications.

Side effects of risperidone can include drowsiness, dizziness, and increased appetite. Patients may also experience extrapyramidal symptoms, such as stiff muscles and jerky movements. Weight gain, which can be significant, is also a common side effect. More severe side effects can include tremors, hypotension, and heart rate changes.

According to the official label, the most common side effects reported in clinical trials included somnolence, headache, and muscle stiffness. A boxed warning on the label cautions against the risk of orthostatic hypotension due to its vasodilatory properties.

In studies, risperidone has shown improvement in symptoms of irritability and restless behavior in autistic patients. However, further research is needed to determine the long-term benefits and risks.